Job 17:11

My days have passed; my plans are broken off--even the desires of my heart.

Study Bible

My days have passed
This phrase reflects Job's deep sense of the fleeting nature of life. In the Hebrew text, the word for "days" (יָמַי, yamai) emphasizes the passage of time, suggesting a life that feels as though it has slipped away. Job is acutely aware of his mortality, a theme that resonates throughout the book. Historically, this reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding of life as transient and often filled with suffering. Job's lament here is a universal human experience, echoing the psalmist's cry in Psalm 39:4, "Show me, O LORD, my end and the measure of my days."

my plans are broken off
The Hebrew word for "plans" (זִמּוֹתַי, zimotai) can also be translated as "purposes" or "intentions." This indicates not just casual thoughts but deeply held aspirations and goals. The phrase "broken off" (נִתְּקוּ, nitt'ku) suggests a violent interruption, as if Job's life ambitions have been forcibly severed. In the ancient world, where one's plans were often seen as divinely guided, this breaking off would have been particularly devastating. Job's experience here is a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of life and the sovereignty of God over human affairs.

even the desires of my heart
The "desires" (מִשְׁאֲלוֹת, mish'alot) of Job's heart refer to his deepest longings and hopes. In Hebrew thought, the heart (לֵב, lev) is the center of not just emotions but also will and intellect. Job's lament that even these desires are unfulfilled speaks to a profound sense of loss and disillusionment. This phrase captures the essence of human vulnerability and the often unmet expectations of life. It also points to the biblical theme that true fulfillment is ultimately found in God, as seen in Psalm 37:4, "Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart."

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
The central figure in the Book of Job, a man of great faith and integrity who undergoes severe trials and suffering. Job's lament in this verse reflects his deep despair and sense of hopelessness.

2. Uz
The land where Job lived, often associated with the region east of Israel. It serves as the backdrop for Job's trials and dialogues with his friends.

3. Job's Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who visit Job to offer counsel and comfort but often end up accusing him of wrongdoing.

4. Suffering and Trials
The overarching event in the Book of Job, where Job loses his wealth, health, and family, leading to his profound reflections on life and faith.

5. God's Sovereignty
A key theme in the Book of Job, highlighting God's ultimate control and wisdom, even when human understanding is limited.

Teaching Points

The Brevity of Life
Recognize the fleeting nature of life and the importance of living with an eternal perspective.

Surrendering Plans to God
Understand that our plans may not always align with God's will, and learn to trust in His greater purpose.

Dealing with Disappointment
Acknowledge feelings of brokenness and disappointment, but seek comfort in God's presence and promises.

Faith Amidst Trials
Emulate Job's perseverance and faith, even when circumstances seem dire and hope appears lost.

God's Sovereignty and Wisdom
Trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty, knowing that He sees the bigger picture beyond our understanding.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job's expression of broken plans and desires in Job 17:11 resonate with your own experiences of disappointment or unfulfilled dreams?

2. In what ways can acknowledging the brevity of life, as seen in Job 17:11 and Psalm 39:4-5, influence your daily decisions and priorities?

3. How can Proverbs 19:21 help you align your personal plans with God's purpose, especially when facing unexpected changes?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to surrender your plans to God. What did you learn about His sovereignty and your faith through that experience?

5. How can the example of Job's faith amidst trials encourage you to trust in God's wisdom and timing, even when you don't understand your current circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 39:4-5
This passage echoes Job's sentiment about the brevity of life and the futility of human plans, reminding believers of the transient nature of earthly existence.

Proverbs 19:21
This verse speaks to the idea that while humans may have many plans, it is ultimately God's purpose that prevails, aligning with Job's realization of the limits of his own desires and plans.

James 4:13-15
James advises believers to acknowledge God's will in their plans, reflecting Job's understanding that human intentions are subject to divine sovereignty.